Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are many reasons your car key won't turn. Some fixes are easy to fix, while others require more technical knowledge or assistance from a professional.

AutoZone associates are able to replace traditional keys without chip using a key blank that is identical to your current key. They then use a machine to duplicate the contours. The process typically takes a few minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, the car's key will stop working at the worst possible time. For instance, if you are putting groceries in the trunk or on your way to the gym. Or even when you are heading home from a long workday. If the issue is caused by a deadlock or your key fob, it's usually simple to solve. This can save you from having to buy a new vehicle.

The first step is to replace the battery on your remote key fob repair fob if it's no longer keeping a charge. This can often fix the issue particularly if you've had it for a while, and it's been jostled around a lot. If you're still having issues it's worth a visit to your local AutoZone could be able to help.

Transponder chips may be embedded in the head of plastic on your key if you own a newer vehicle. These chips are designed to be more effective anti-theft devices. They emit unique code each time your key is was inserted into the ignition. The signal is then detected by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and starts your engine, or rejects it and stops your car from starting.

Depending on your specific car depending on the model, you might be able to reset the chip on your own by following the instructions in the owner's guide. It may require closing and opening doors or turning off lights or electronics, and pressing a series of buttons in a specific sequence. You can pay a locksmith or the manufacturer to modify your keys if you are not able to do it yourself. Some car dealerships can do this, but they may require proof of ownership and the deposit.

Cylinder

The cylinder is among the most basic 3D geometric shapes. It's a shape with two circular bases joined by a curved surface that is an exact distance from the center, referred to as the height of the cylinder. Some real-life examples of a cylindrical cylinder are toilet paper rolls, cold drink containers, and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also commonly used in car engine components.

You might also have to replace the cylinder if your key is damaged. This is an inexpensive repair that you can typically do yourself. If you are adept with a toolbox, you can purchase a brand new ignition lock from your local auto parts store and replace it according to the instructions in the owner's manual. But, it's not always an easy task and is often better to have a professional take care of it for you.

If your car keys do not start the engine or turn on the ignition it could be due to a problem with the cylinder or battery. It is a good idea to try changing the battery of your key fob first. This may fix the issue. Your key fob is likely to see frequent use and is jostled around a lot, which is why it may need to be cleaned and reprogrammed for your car.

This is usually performed by locksmiths or your car dealership, depending on the type of vehicle you own. If you own an older model, it's worth looking for a local hardware shop that specializes in keys or locks for automobiles. A hardware store will typically cut a standard car key and give you an extra key, whereas the dealer will need your vehicle's VIN number or proof of ownership to make an alternative.

Gear Selector

Over time keys are prone to a beating. They are tossed around in purses, pockets and drawers, and may even be bent in an impossible-to-access location. That's why it is so important to check the grooves of your key to ensure they're in good shape and clean. If they're not the grooves will eventually wear down making it difficult to insert or remove the key.

There are several ways you can get your key off the ignition. First try using an alternate key to determine whether the issue is with the key itself or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle your key in and out of ignition to align it with the internal components.

A key jamming in the ignition cylinder can also be caused by misalignment of small tumblers in the cylinder. This could cause the pins not to drop correctly, which can prevent the key from being properly inserted. Using a lock lubricant specifically designed for locks or graphite powder may aid in re-aligning these tumblers, so the key can easily come out of the ignition.

In addition, some may suggest tapping the end of the key using the hammer when it's in the ignition, but this could end up damaging the key as well as the cylinder that controls ignition. Use a tack-hammer instead of a hammer, but don't hit it too hard.

If you've tried all of these methods but still aren't able to get rid of your car keys, it may be time to contact a professional. A locksmith or mechanic who is certified can safely take apart the ignition and remove your key.

Battery

The car key fob makes it simple to lock or unlock your vehicle. Unfortunately, like most things that are powered by batteries - it will eventually fail. You can replace the batteries yourself, and your key fob will be as good as new.

First, you'll need to locate the right battery. Start by reading the owner's manual of your vehicle or asking a local locksmith which type of battery it is. You can buy batteries at your local auto parts or hardware store. It is possible to disassemble your key fob to find the battery slot. It is important to employ a soft tool, such as a fingernail, or screwdriver, to pry the fob apart without causing internal damage.

Place the battery carefully into the slot after you have opened the keyfob. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery match up. Otherwise, the battery will not be able to charge correctly. Close the key fob once the battery is installed.

Press the button on your new key and point it at the car. If everything works according to plan you can hop in and take a look at your newly restored car key. You'll soon be an expert at changing the battery in your car key. Good luck! Make sure you follow our blog for more information on how to repair your vehicle at home. If you're not sure, we offer affordable key fob repairs.

Bent Key

The most undesirable thing that could happen to your car remote key repair near me key is that it gets bent in the lock, or even worse, stuck inside. This kind of key is usually repairable. However when the key is too far in and can no longer be removed using normal twisting, the only way to fix it is to replace it.

Generally speaking, the issue with a key that gets stuck in the ignition is the fact that it has become excessively worn and is no longer working properly with the lock wafers. It may be a sign that you should replace the ignition cylinder, or just get a new key.

If the key is capable of being put into the cylinder but it's not aligned correctly, you will need a hammer to flatten it. Make sure you employ a soft-faced hammer to avoid damaging the lock cylinder or the key. Alternatively, you could utilize the flat end of a pair needle-nose pliers to bend the key back into alignment. It may take a few tries to get the key in the right position.

If the key isn't able to be removed from the ignition cylinder it is a sign that the teeth are excessively worn and aren't engaging the wafers in the lock correctly. In this case you'll need an entirely new key as soon as possible. This can be accomplished by taking the stub of your key to the dealership from which you purchased your Car key repair and asking for a VIN cut key that is exactly the same as the one you had previously. This is a lot easier and less expensive than trying to use the key you have already got back in shape.